Posted on Friday, September 19, 2025
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by AMAC, D.J. Wilson
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1 Comments
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We’ve all seen those darling videos of a puppy meeting his new family or a cat playfully head bumping a human. Those moments are magical. As delightful as pets are, caring for them is a tremendous yet honorable responsibility that lasts for their lifetime. Pets have needs to include being fed, loved, and cared for – including financially. In return, animals offer affection and loyalty towards their families. Health experts recently shared that people can also reap amazing medical benefits from having pets. Let’s learn more!
The pet and human health connection
Per Classcentral.com, dogs have been domesticated for between 15,000 and 30,000 years, and cats have been living with humans for about 10,000 years. Pets have long been special companions, providing humans with unconditional love, support, laughter and joy. In addition to emotional rewards, scientific research supports the notion that owning a pet can have a positive impact on human health.
Here are some proven amazing benefits of pet ownership:
- Increased Physical Activity: Daily pet walks encourage humans to get out and exercise. Moving the body is beneficial for maintaining healthy weight and overall wellbeing.
- Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels: Studies demonstrate a link between pet interactions and lower resting heart rates and cholesterol levels.
- Enhanced immune system: Exposure to pets in childhood may help enhance the immune system.
- Stress reduction: Pets promote relaxation which can have a calming effect on the body.
- Improved mood: The presence of pets typically has a happy mood boosting effect.
- Social connection: Pets may facilitate social connections between humans.
- Improved mental stimulation: One study showed that kids with pets in the classroom increased academic reading competence. Having a pet around may increase awareness, concentration, motivation, and stimulation.
- Therapeutic effects: Being around pets has helped some people with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and autism spectrum disorder.
Enhancing the pet-human relationship
The American Kennel Club (AKC) celebrates National Responsible Dog Ownership Day on September 20th. The goal of this annual event is to educate the public about responsible dog ownership and pet care to include animal health, safety, microchipping, socialization and other pertinent topics. Not only does this information teach dog owners new tricks, but it encourages ways to enhance human relationships with pets to maximize benefits.
Unexpected health benefits
Recently, WebMD shared 8 Surprising Health Benefits of Pet Ownership for Migraines. The reliable leader of health information posed this question, “Is it healthy to own a pet when you have migraines?” The conclusion is yes. Not only are depression and anxiety common for people with migraines, but experts explain that the same brain chemicals may be involved in all three conditions. Hanging out with a pet can ultimately lower the body’s cortisol (stress hormone). Exercise associated with pet ownership can boost brain chemicals and lead to fewer migraines. Petting animals can also reduce stress and in turn help people sleep better. Together, these benefits work to positively impact the overall health of migraine sufferers.
Pet allergies
So, what about pet allergies? It’s always a good idea for people to discuss pet ownership with their doctor before committing to a pet. This is especially important in families with known allergies to pets, such as people allergic to pet dander. WebMD describes a study that concluded that infants who lived in homes with animals were less likely to show evidence of pet allergies. They were also less likely to have eczema and showed higher levels of some immune system chemicals. Because it’s a serious matter, having a pet in the home is a good discussion to have with a family doctor or allergist. Additionally, kids, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems might be at greater risk of getting sick from animals. Therefore, a doctor’s guidance can provide insight.
A word of caution
It’s beneficial to have a backup plan for your pet should you or a family member become ill and unable to handle pet ownership. This means having a person on board willing to take your pet should you be in a bind. Understand that it is a very sad state to surrender a pet to a shelter as there is no guarantee that they will be adopted. In worse case scenarios, euthanasia may be the outcome. As kind people, we are called to avoid these heartbreaking scenarios through thoughtful planning.
Considerations regarding pet adoption
There are few joys greater than bringing home a new pet. But before you open your heart and home to a furry friend, here are some factors to first consider:
- Can I provide a safe and loving home environment? One must be ready, willing, and able to “pet-proof” the home to create a safe and comfortable environment. Consider a pet’s size and needs. For instance, large dogs require room to run and are better fitted for larger spaces.
- Have I researched the temperament and physical characteristics of the pet I intend to adopt? Each breed has its own tendencies, and these should be considered, however, pets also have their own personalities. Humans can largely foster positive behaviors in pets through proper training.
- Do I have the time to invest in my pet? Pets require much attention and time. For instance, pets with long, thick coats require regular bathing and brushing to avoid matted fur.
- Do I have the money to care for my pet? Basic pet care includes many variables like cost of feeding, training, boarding, grooming and supplies. Pet illnesses or medications can greatly add to the bill depending upon a pet’s health.
Pets may sometimes add stress
An estimated 71% of U.S. households or about 94 million families own a pet according to the 2024-2025 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA). However, it’s not the best idea to get a pet for the purpose of gaining health benefits alone. While animals can make people happy and do good things for their health, attending to them and managing behavioral or medical issues in pets can do the opposite and be a stressor.
A serious business
Simply put, pet ownership is a joyful yet expensive and time-consuming commitment. Curious how much it costs to own a dog or cat nowadays? Per Pet Place, “The average annual cost of owning a dog in 2025 ranges from $1,390 to $5,295, with a lifetime midpoint estimate of $34,550 over a 10-year lifespan. For cats, the annual cost is $760 to $3,495, leading to a lifetime midpoint of $32,170 over 16 years.” If you are considering two pets, understand they may require more of your time, attention, space, and money.
Alternatives to pet ownership
Folks who want a pet but lack resources for their care should consider pet sitting for a family member’s or neighbor’s animal instead. One may also volunteer at an animal shelter or foster pets in need of temporary homes. Pet sharing is another option that some families do. This dedicates special time to a pet while splitting costs and responsibilities. However, pet sharing needs to be handled carefully so that everyone is happy and contributing equally or as agreed. Pet therapy offered through outreach programs can also be beneficial. And, if you’re not into any of those ideas, pet cafes or simple walks in the park can provide a fun way to briefly visit or observe some furry creatures in action. If all else fails, watch feel-good movies involving furry friends to boost your mood. Click here for a list of some epic dog movies.
The bottom line
Pets are more than loyal companions. They are helpers and healers in health. NIH News in Health explores the connection that exists between humans and pets. The unfortunate news is that more research on human-animal interactions is needed as the field is still relatively new. But the great news is that thus far studies show that interacting with pets can do amazing things for our health such as decreasing stress, lowering blood pressure, and boosting spirits. Spending time with pets who provide comfort and support has an undeniably positive effect on people. It is likely that scientists will soon discover more amazing medical benefits of pet ownership or exposure, proving the presence of dogs and/or cats invaluable to mankind.
Disclosure: This article is strictly informational and is not a scientific or medical document. Please contact your doctor for personal health advice.
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